U.N. sex-ed guidance draws fire

A U.N. agency is backing away from U.N.-proposed guidelines intended to reduce HIV infections through sex education for young people, officials in Paris said. Responding to criticism by conservative groups, the United Nations Population Fund has requested its name be removed from published materials associated with the guidelines, set for release in draft form next week by UNESCO. Critics say the program content is too strong for children and that it portrays access to legal abortion as a right. UPI

All women urged to take folic acid 'just in case'

Most women take folic acid pills once they already realise they are pregnant which can often be too late to prevent spina bifida. Now experts have warned that all women of childbearing age should take folic acid supplements to prevent any children they have being born with spina bifida. The advice comes after a rise in the number of cases of the disability. Daily Mail

Shotgun adoption

This article is critical of adoption agencies and pregnancy care centers. While we can't be certain the circumstances related in it are accurate, it does serve as a warning. The Nation

Editor: Centers associated with Partners in Ministry/Baptists for Life adhere to standards of operation that say, concerning adoption:

"Adoption is recognized as one viable alternative to abortion. Agencies which provide assistance in placing children for adoption are to be commended and Partners in Ministry and its associates will work cooperatively with such agencies whenever possible. However, the PCC is not biased in favor of, or in opposition to, adoption. The PCC will remain independent of adoption agencies, relating to them in the same manner as to other referral agencies. The PCC will receive no payment from adoption agencies, will not enter into contractual relationships with them, nor be established under the auspices of such agencies."

It's also important to note that the author is critical of large, Christian families, such as the one written about here: Family Attacked for Too Many Children: "Thrilled" about Baby 19.

Post-Abortion Voices Join Health Care Debate

"Abortion didn’t solve our problems; it only created new ones." Thus say the women and men who resorted to abortion and ended up regretting it. Their voices are heard in the Silent No More Awareness Campaign, and in a new video. Silent No More

1 in 6 girls pressured into sex by boyfriend

Young girls are being physically abused and pressured into sex by their boyfriends, according to new research. Nearly nine in ten girls aged 13 to 17 have been involved in an “intimate” relationship, according to a survey of 1,353 young people carried out by the NSPCC and Bristol University. Of those girls, one in six reported being pressured into having sex, while one in 16 said they had been raped. Girls with older boyfriends were most at risk, with three quarters reporting abuse. Many kept quiet about the situation because they felt scared or guilty, or feared they would lose their boyfriend. Christian Institute, Guardian

Reflection on prayer, from Colleen Tronson

"Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and I will answer thee and show thee great and might things, which thou knowest not." Jeremiah 33:3

"Be careful for nothing: but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

My husband calls Jeremiah 33:3 "God's Phone Number." I love that because there are times in life and ministry when I am searching for discernment for a personal or counseling situation that is very complex or "messy" and I start to think (in my humanness) that there is no answer. Then I remember this verse and WOW-Call on the Lord; He has the answer! In the flesh I can't solve the problem and I can't see the end of the situation right now, but an answer will come and in His time.

Philippians 4:6-7 then reminds me to PRAY and ASK for direction for myself and the situation. God promises that His PEACE will keep me from worry and unbelief and I don't have to "stress" out about any situation. I have a sign on my computer that says, "Good Morning, This is God. I will be handling all of your problems today. I will not need your help." I don't know if this happens to anyone else or not, but I am thankful that God keeps reminding me that He's in charge and that my job is to pray, apply the Word, and wait on His timing.

Abortion Stigma Affects Doctors' Training And Choices

When Devin Miller, leader of the abortion rights group Medical Students for Choice at Virginia Commonwealth University, heard about the slaying of George Tiller, she "took a step back" to ponder her future. The second-year student plans to become an obstetrician-gynecologist or family physician and expects she would sometimes terminate pregnancies. But the May 31 death of Tiller has left the 23-year-old deeply shaken. Thirty-six years after it was legalized, abortion remains one of the most common procedures in American medicine -- and the most stigmatized. In 2005, 1.2 million abortions were performed, dwarfing the number of appendectomies (341,000), gallbladder removals (398,000) and hysterectomies (575,000). "There's this feeling it's dirty and should not be spoken about," said Miller. "It's hard to be brave and seek everything out yourself." Washington Post

Planned Parenthood Boasts of White House Ties

"Just left the White House meeting on women's health care - they appreciate all the mighty PP supporters speaking up for reform in the states!" wrote Planned Parenthood president Cecile Richards on her Facebook and Twitter accounts Wednesday afternoon. The latest meeting continues an apparently tight relationship between Planned Parenthood and the White House, where Obama administration officials have expressed their full cooperation with and encouragement of Planned Parenthood's stake in the bill. Catholic Online

White House Reality Check Site Still Silent on Abortion

Since launching three weeks ago, the White House Reality Check website on healthcare reform has been updated several times to debunk a growing number of alleged myths about the Democrats' plan. But the site is still silent on conservatives' charge that the plan will use taxpayer money to cover abortions. It's a stunning omission, given how much the government-funded abortion allegation has dominated this month's congressional town hall meetings on healthcare reform—and given that President Obama himself has called the charge a myth. Why does the White House site ignore such a big elephant in the room? US News

Spanish resource

Human Life Alliance has explanations of abortion methods in Spanish, plus other resources.

Pro-life calendar used to great effect

In 2007, South Carolina Citizens for Life sent every member of their State General Assembly a 2008 Life Before Birth calendar with a Christmas card. "The purpose was to encourage our lawmakers to pass legislation requiring abortionists to inform pregnant women they have the right to see the baby's ultrasound before the abortion." The abortion-ultrasound bill became law in 2008. SCCL believes the calendar contributed to the success of the legislation. Heritage House '76

Abortion Clinic Tour

Dr. LeRoy Carhart shows us the facility some say is a safe haven for women, while others call a crime scene. Walking down the hallway of the Bellevue Abortion Clinic, the walls are tan, the hallway narrow. The man leading the tour insists he has nothing to hide. Action 3 News

See also: Protests to focus on doctor who performed 60,000 abortions

Maximizing generosity through alignment

From God's perspective, giving is a spiritual act. Giving is a reflection of Christ's generosity, a means of participating in the work of God. But we can easily be distracted in asking others to support our ministries, particularly in a depressed economy when so many are struggling financially. ECFA

Majority of Foundations Defrauded by Madoff Had Four or Fewer Trustees

More than 80 percent of foundations that lost between 30 to 100 percent of their assets to Bernard Madoff’s Ponzi scheme had fewer than five trustees serving on their boards. This was one of the findings in "Learning from Madoff: Lessons for Foundation Boards," a white paper by the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy. ECFA

Investing with Care: How to Avoid Investment Scams and Surprises

The arrests of Bernard Madoff and other investment managers alleged to have defrauded investors have sent shock waves through the nonprofit community. If you’re a nonprofit board member or investment committee member, you should be taking a close look at your organization’s investment policies and due diligence. As an investment fiduciary, you aren’t required to guarantee that your investments perform well. But you do owe a "duty of care" with respect to the investment and management of investment funds. ECFA

'Comprehensive sex ed' = more abortions

Thousands of abortions involving underage girls are occurring in Scotland, although the children have taken classes on alleged "comprehensive sex education." The news comes after the British Medical Journal released a report on the U.K.'s sex education program, which Valerie Huber of the National Abstinence Education Association calls an utter failure. "The thing that really makes it interesting though, related to what's going on here in the U.S., is that [the Scots] implemented a program that the president is describing as a promising, in fact a successful program that he wants to replicate with your and my tax dollars here in the United States." OneNewsNow

Who Are the 50 Million Missing Women?

It is estimated about 50 Million Women have been systematically purged from India’s population, targeted only because they were female. This is perhaps what makes it one of the worst genocides in human history. And it is silent. And ongoing. The causes of this elimination are primarily female feticide, female infanticide, and dowry murders. 50 Million Missing Campaign; see also More Than 100 Million Women are Missing

Former clinic employees aid abortion foes

As part of Operation Rescue's efforts to close down a Bellevue abortion clinic, the group is working with former clinic employees who say they performed medical procedures without proper licensing. Operation Rescue previously filed a complaint with state officials accusing the Abortion and Contraception Clinic of Nebraska of unsafe conditions. To support that complaint, the group has gathered statements from the former clinic workers. None of the clinic workers left their jobs by choice. Omaha World-Herald

Teen Mom Hid Pregnancy Then Killed Newborn

A 19-year-old Las Vegas-area woman has been arrested on allegations that she hid her pregnancy and then killed her newborn son because she was afraid her mother would be mad at her for giving birth out of wedlock. FoxNews

FDA Hold On Geron’s Stem Cell Trial

Animals being tested using Geron Corporation’s treatment for spinal cord injury developed cysts at the injury sites, a finding that led the U.S. FDA to place a clinical hold on a planned human trial of the treatment. The treatment in question involved embryonic stem cells. Stem Cell Research News

Baby's mp3 heart monitor

A new type of fetal heart monitor could save the lives of unborn infants in complicated pregnancies. PhysOrg.com

UNESCO Proposes Explicit Sex-Ed Program

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is recommending the voluntary teaching of explicit sexuality education starting at age five to prevent HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. At age 12 to 15, children will learn abortion and its safety. Those age 15 to 18 will be taught on advocating the right to and access to safe abortion. All Headline News

Naples Planned Parenthood to start offering abortions next month

Abortion has not been available in Collier, FL, since 1996 when Dr. Wallace McLean stopped performing it because of opponents protesting outside his Naples office and his home. Since then, women have had to travel to Miami or Fort Myers for an abortion. Planned Parenthoods in Sarasota, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Miami and West Palm Beach offer abortion services but that’s not the case for all Planned Parenthood clinics in Florida. For instance, Planned Parenthood in Fort Myers does not do clinical abortions but it does offer the abortion pill. By the end of 2010, all will be doing abortions. Collier, Planned Parenthood has hired a Cape Coral physician, Dr. Philip Waterman, to perform the outpatient procedure. He does abortions at other Planned Parenthood sites in the state.

Patients must schedule appointments and abortions will only be done on Mondays. No other medical services will be offered on that day. The cost for an abortion will be $475 and insurance will be accepted. A sliding scale fee will be available to uninsured women based on income. The Collier clinic will do abortions in cases of rape and incest but will not accept Medicaid for reimbursement, which in Florida pays when the crime has been proven. Starting in October, the clinic will offer the abortion pill, which can be used up to the ninth week of pregnancy. Naples News

Editor: This article contains a surprising -- and helpful -- amount of detail.

Abortion Pill Hasn't Expanded Number of Abortion Outlets

When RU486 was approved in the waning days of the Clinton administration, abortion advocates hoped it would make abortion universally accessible. A new Guttmacher Institute study indicates that hasn't happened and, essentially, only doctors who were already doing abortions picked up the option to give out abortion drug. LifeNews

Mainstream Media Honors Late-Term Abortionist

To liberal media outlets, Warren Hern is a doctor who boldly stands up for his beliefs in the face of intimidation - a lonely humanitarian braving violent death for the sake of his patients. Attention turned to Hern in the wake of the May 31 murder of Kansas late-term abortionist (and Hern friend) George Tiller. Since then, Hern has appeared on MSNBC, CNN and NPR. Print media, including the Associated Press, Los Angeles Times, USA Today, Boston Globe and the Chicago Tribune have cited him. LifeNews

Slovakia President Signs Bill Into Law to Inform Women of Abortion's Risks

The president of the eastern European nation of Slovakia has signed into law a bill that would inform women of the dangers of and alternatives to abortion. The measure would also require parental consent before a teen can get an abortion and furnish women considering an abortion with information on the development of their unborn child. LifeNews

"Blood Money" Documentary Seeks to Expose the Abortion Business

A group of filmmakers have recently filmed a documentary that aims to expose the terrible reality of abortion, focusing on the financial aspect of the multimillion dollar abortion industry. The film, entitled "Blood Money," includes numerous interviews with leaders of the pro-life movement, in which they lay out the facts about the abortion industry and the effects that abortions have on women. LifeSiteNews

Ted Kennedy, Abortion Advocate

Known as "the lion of the Senate," U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy was one of the most formidable opponents to American conservatism ever to claim a seat in the Senate. NARAL awarded a 100% pro-abortion voting record to the Massachusetts senator, who also championed embryonic stem cell research and same-sex "marriage." One of the most infamous moments in Kennedy's career was his nearly single-handed defeat in 1987 of President Reagan's pro-life nominee for the Supreme Court, Judge Robert Bork, whom Kennedy lambasted as envisioning America as "a land in which women would be forced into back-alley abortions." The speech ushered in a new era of senatorial contention over presidential nominations to the Supreme Court. LifeSiteNews

Abstinence videos on You Tube

Watch: Toothbrush and Animal Instinct. These were presented at the 2009 Abstinence Film Festival.

Editor: Sorry I couldn't embed them here. On another front, now I've seen everything: using sex to sell abstinence -- the new Candies Foundation campaign.

Cutting edge pro-life information for your campus or organization

icare... is a gripping pro-life resource designed to educate individuals about abortion and its consequences. With the growth of the current eco-friendly, "go-green" movement, students are constantly urged to search for new ways in which to preserve the environment. icare... is designed to encourage students to recognize our world's most precious (and often wasted) resource-human life! The solid pro-life content in icare... challenges students to re-evaluate their opinions about abortion, premarital sex, and the humanity of the preborn child. Human Life Alliance

European Committee Upholds Pro-Abstinence Sex Education Program

One of the articles of the European Social Charter on education and health has been interpreted to mean that all Council of Europe member states must provide mandatory "sexual education" to children, although the nature of the curriculum or the extent to which it is to be taught has not been well defined. Three abortion and feminist groups brought suit against Croatia claiming that a sex education curriculum preferred by most Croatian families violated the charter. The curriculum teaches that abstinence is the only guaranteed means of preventing sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. LifeSiteNews

'In the Womb' Now on the Net: Amazing 4-D Footage of Growing Baby

The two-hour National Geographic documentary 'In the Womb' is now available on YouTube in nine parts. Originally aired in 2005, the documentary used revolutionary techniques in computer imaging and 4-D ultrasounds to present stunning images of the developing embryo, taking viewers through the amazing journey of the unborn baby from conception to birth. LifeSiteNews

Editor: I was alerted (8/31/09) to the fact these videos have been removed from YouTube, as they apparently infringed on National Geographic's copyrights. DVDs are available for purchase from National Geographic.

Women's Magazine Profiles Women Considering Abortion Because Of Fetal Abnormalities

In its September issue, Marie Claire features profiles of two pregnant women who were faced with the decision of whether to have abortions in the second trimester after their fetuses were diagnosed with fatal conditions. Medical News Today

Townhall Kit

Click here to access the kit’s printable [PDF] documents and web resources from FRC Action.

Reaching Teens Online

Relationships can be a mixed bag of emotions, and breakups can be awful! All these emotions may be compounded as a teen! Teenbreaks.com is an interactive source for teens, meeting them where they are, on-line, and helping them make solid and healthy life choices. Sponsored by the Rosetta Foundation.

Reflection: The Ultimate Aim of Serving Others

John Piper talks about how serving others and being served by Christ isn't an end in itself. It's supposed to cause us to grow in holiness and know Jesus. Desiring God

APA Denies Abortion Mental Health Risks

Ignoring both peer-reviewed studies showing such risks and the direct evidence of millions of women who suffer from an abortion they now regret, the American Psychiatric Association continued denying any abortion-adverse mental health risk at its annual convention. LifeNews

Sneak peek! 2010 SOHLS bulletin insert

It's at the printer, but we want you to have a sneak preview of our 2010 bulletin insert for Sanctity of Human Life Sunday. We think it's a winner. The little doll on the front is Tom's granddaughter, Kaci, whose photo was taken by Sylvia Rhodea of sylvia rhodea life art.

The back text asks: What is a PCC? What is its value to the local church? Why does the PCC need the church? And, most importantly, why is the pro-life message so vital? And, of course, it leaves room for you to print your logo and contact information (vertically or horizontally).

It will be in the mail soon. If you're going to the Care Net conference, see Bob Foust and Tom Ham (of Plans for You) for printed samples and ordering information. Or give our office a call: 1-800-968-6086. $25/500.

Jim Caviezel: Pro-Life More Important Than My Career

Movie star Jim Caviezel says being pro-life is more important to him than this acting career. In a new interview, Caviezel talks about his reason for opposing abortion and the adoption that changed his life and family. Caviezel and his wife Kari recently became adoptive parents to an orphaned boy and girl from China. He said the adoptions changed his life in ways he never imagined. "I always thought if I adopted that I wouldn't have the same feeling [as I would] if they were genetically my own children. Nothing could be further from the truth." The actor said a challenge from a colleague sparked his interest in pursuing an adoption. "This guy I know said, 'You're pro-life. Tell you what, if you really believe in what you speak, adopt a child — not any child, he’s got to have a serious deficiency,' (and I will become pro-life). He never changed his (position), but it convicted me." He added: "And I don't love my career that much to say, 'I'm going to remain silent on this.' I'm defending every single baby who has never been born." LifeNews

Carhart Lays Off Half His Staff, Abortions Down

Late-term abortion practitioner LeRoy Carhart announced today that he had laid off nearly half of the staff at his Omaha, Nebraska, abortion center. In a letter to staff, he said the layoffs were the result of “the recent decrease in patient numbers and income.” News of declining abortions at Carhart's abortion center comes as other reports throughout the year have shown the poor economy contributing to a rise in the number of abortions. A former employee furnished a copy of the letter and said four of the 10 people who worked at Carhart's abortion center were fired. LifeNews

Abortion: Which Side Is Fabricating?

Despite what President Obama said, the House bill would allow abortions to be covered by a federal plan and by federally subsidized private plans. FactCheck.org

New book about birth control pills

The Pill: Are You Sure It's For You?, a new book out next month, queries why the Pill is so readily prescribed across the developed world when its negative side-effects are so frequent and sometimes fatal, and its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy less than perfect. Daily Mail

Just for Girls . . . and Guys

Human Life Alliance's Just for Girls and Just for Guys pro-life, pro-abstinence magazines can be viewed online here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/16369562/Just-for-Girls-and-Just-4-Guys

Abortion Expansion Stopped

The Center for Bio-Ethical Reform is pleased to report that the proposed relocation and expansion of Planned Parenthood's abortion business in Knoxville, TN, has been stopped. For now. Christian Newswire

Planned Parenthood client: "No loving, caring there"

A client of Planned Parenthood testifies about her experience.

Most Ob/Gyns in Canada Don't Do Abortions

A survey of Canada's obstetricians and gynaecologists has found that more than half do not perform abortions, and more than half of these doctors do not do them due to their personal beliefs, reports the Medical Post. Of the respondents, 60.6% said that they do not conduct abortions. Respondents could indicate more than one reason why they did not do abortions. The largest reason cited was personal beliefs, with 50.5% of those who do not perform abortions indicating so, meaning that over one third of total respondents do not conduct abortions due to personal beliefs. LifeSiteNews

Editor: I'm curious as to whether Canada's national health service requires doctors to do abortion make referrals, or if they have conscience rights. The article doesn't say.

Prayer request

Doors of Hope Pregnancy Resource Center in Madera, CA (Linda Garner, Director) - "We are in desperate need of bilingual volunteers who have the time to commit. Also, a praise to God for His continued provisions, strength and truth in our lives."

Medical Center Won't Admit Carhart's Late-Term Abortion Patients

Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, has announced that it will not allow LeRoy Carhart to admit patients there who may suffer from botched abortions. The decision is significant because it could prevent Carhart from opening up a new late-term abortion business in town. LifeNews

Now is the Time to Take a Stand for Abstinence

Join author & trainer Scott Phelps for an inspiring and equipping two day conference. Learn how to teach teens with excellence, reach schools with the importance of abstinence education, and hear about a unique Abstinence & Marriage program to generate income for your organization. September 16-17 in Indianapolis, Indiana Registration is $15 per day. September 29-30 in Springfield, Illinois Registration is $75 for the two day Conference. October 6-7 in Chicago, Illinois Registration is $75 for the two day Conference.

Injectable Contraceptive Leads To Obesity

A study by Drs. Abbey B. Berenson and Mahbubur Rahman of The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, has found women who use the injectable hormonal contraceptive DMPA (depot medroxyprogesterone acetate) experience a significant increase in body weight and fat, and the obesity may persist even after stopping DMPA use. LifeSiteNews

Judge tosses abortion law requiring ultrasound

An Oklahoma judge on Tuesday overturned a state law that required women seeking an abortion to receive an ultrasound and a doctor's description of the fetus. Oklahoma County District Judge Vicki Robertson said the law violated constitutional requirements that legislative measures deal only with one subject. He did not rule on the validity of the ultrasound provisions. AP

Kourtney Kardashian considered aborting her unplanned pregnancy

The 30-year-old socialite revealed she had reunited with her 26-year-old former partner after learning she was carrying his child. "I definitely thought about it long and hard, about if I wanted to keep the baby or not, and I wasn't thinking about adoption. . . . I can't even tell you how many people just say, 'Oh, get an abortion.' Like it's not a big deal. I looked online, and I was sitting on bed hysterically crying, reading these stories of people who felt so guilty from having an abortion. I was reading these things of how many people are traumatized by it afterwards. I was just sitting there crying, thinking, 'I can't do that.'" WSYR

Editor: Some pro-life groups are foolishly holding Kourtney up as a role model, but she's hardly that. She made the right choice about life for her baby, but her other choices have not been so stellar.

Chlamydia tests for children on beach

Youth workers are offering free chlamydia tests and condom holders to children at Bournemouth beach. Bournemouth Borough Council [UK] is backing the ”Summer of Love” scheme, which involves a bus parked at the beach every Friday evening of the summer holidays. The scheme is aimed at children aged 13 and over but no proof of age is required and youth workers can use their discretion in deciding a child’s maturity. Christian Institute

Pro-Abortion Laws Lead to More Maternal Deaths

The world's largest abortion provider, International Planned Parenthood Federation, has recently acknowledged an alarming "surge" in maternal deaths in South Africa, challenging the pro-abortion mantra that liberal abortion laws decrease maternal mortality. Maternal deaths increased by twenty percent in the period 2005-2007 in South Africa, a country that since 1996 has had one of the most permissive abortion laws on the African continent. LifeNews

Teen Abortions Lower in States Accepting Abstinence Funds

A new report relying on data from the Centers for Disease Control finds the states that accepted abstinence education funding saw greater reductions in teen abortions compared to states that didn't. LifeNews

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Woman stabbed after refusing abortion

A Southbridge teenager is being held on $500,000 bail for allegedly stabbing his pregnant girlfriend several times because she refused to get an abortion. Police said 18-year-old Alex Santana attacked Leah Diver at about 2:30 a.m. Friday during an argument over the pregnancy. Boston Herald

Pure Exposure Fashion Show Thursday in Toronto

Nearly thirty models are keyed up and ready to walk the runway this Thursday evening as part of a unique fashion show organized by the summer youth interns at Campaign Life Coalition, Toronto. The goal of the show is to present today's youth with attractive alternatives to mainstream fashion trends that tend to degrade human sexuality. Event coordinator Jenna Murphy explained the reason for the show. "Whether or not we realize it," she said, "the way we dress affects the way we behave, how we perceive other people, how we perceive ourselves. So if we dress in such a way whereby we are sending a message to the world that we respect ourselves and that we do deserve respect in return, I think that you are upholding a framework. If you take away the bottom rung of the ladder, which is modesty - how you present yourselves to the world - you are causing some kind of collapse." LifeSiteNews

Age At First Childbirth Increasing In US, Worldwide

The average age of women giving birth for the first time is increasing worldwide but remains lower in the U.S. than in other developed countries because of the nation's higher teen birth rate, according to a National Center for Health Statistics report released on Wednesday. The average age at first birth for women in the U.S. was 25, compared with 29 in other developed countries. MediLexicon News

ECFA regional conferences

Attend one of six ECFA Regional Workshops on recession-proofing your ministry this fall! With reduction in many travel budgets, they are pleased to bring 16 workshops to a city near you at a very modest cost. Each of these Regional Workshops will be especially meaningful for church leaders, board members, finance staff members, and development staff members. Meeting in: Seattle September 3; Chattanooga September 15; Charlotte September 17; Grand Rapids October 21; Minneapolis October 22; and Cincinnati November 5. ECFA Workshop brochure PDF

Understanding teen moms

In 1988, there were many organizations serving pregnant teenage mothers, however after the birth of the child, few resources were available for a teenager who chose to parent her child. How could I, as someone who believed that all life is created by God and, therefore, sacred, ask a pregnant teenager to give her child life and then not offer her encouragement, resources, and practical assistance? ATC

Wanted: Couples who waited

True Love Waits is looking for couples that have “waited” to interview for stories on purity.
Kenneth Purdom, director of HisWay Productions (a True Love Waits® Cooperating Ministry) says, "Anyone interested in being taking part in the interviews please email me your contact information with a short overview of your purity story." http://www.truelovewaitsrally.com/

India welcomes more baby girls for first time

More girls were born in Delhi than boys last year for the first time, according to official figures, after parents were given cash bonuses of £125 for each new daughter as part of a drive to stamp out female infanticide. Times Online

British pop star tells of abortion regrets

Sinitta described how having an abortion has had a dramatic effect on her life and was one of the factors which prevented her having children. Daily Mail

Editor: Sad, sad, sad.

Competing Emotions

When I watched an abortion for the first time, my reaction surprised me. I've covered abortion for Newsweek for two years. But my experience [viewing an abortion] found a general discomfort when confronted with abortion as a physical reality, not a political idea. Americans may support abortion rights, but even 40 years after Roe, we don't talk about it like other medical procedures. Newsweek

Baby with no face? Ultrasounds were wrong!

Abby's mom was offered a termination of her pregnancy as several ultrasounds showed she may be missing a face and her right heart ventrical. Her mom believed God would help her with the challenges of caring for a disabled child, and chose life for her. Abby definitely has a face (and hands, and good health)! What a beautiful baby! Sylvia Rhodea Life Art

Parents + Abstinence Education = Lowest Risk of Teen Pregnancy and STDs

In today’s world, teens are exposed to sexual content every day, and parents have reason to be concerned. Recent studies have found that parental involvement and abstinence education can have a strong positive influence over a teen’s sexual behaviors. Concerned Parents

Real health care respects human life

AUL’s legal team has written a talking-points flyer for pro-lifers to distribute at town hall meetings. It gives detailed information on the parts of the bills under consideration that relate to abortion, end-of-life care, and conscience rights. The flyer also includes our three essential principles that must be in any health care reform plan that protects life. Click here to download the flyer.

Harris Poll Shows Strong Shift to Pro-Life Position

A new national Harris poll finds a strong shift towards the pro-life position on abortion and reveals the shift is seen among members of both political parties. The poll also finds a majority of African-Americans and Hispanics oppose the Roe v. Wade decision. LifeNews

A Remarkable Pro-Life Woman

Feminists for Life of America remembers the many contributions of Eunice Kennedy Shriver who was named a Remarkable Pro-Life Woman in 1998. Shriver, recognizing the high rate of mental retardation among children born to teen-age mothers, led the Kennedy Foundation's efforts to develop an innovative program to address the causes of problems facing teen-age women and their children. Called Community of Caring, the program focuses on "health and nutrition for the pregnant teen, preparation for childbirth, development of parental skills, and the importance of continuing in school and avoiding risk-taking behavior." Parents and community volunteers act as a mentoring network for teen-age mothers. Since its inception in 1986, more than 350 schools have adopted the Community of Caring program. LifeSiteNews

Twitter CEO's wife Sara 'tweeting' in labour

Sara Williams, wife of Twitter CEO and co-founder, has been tweeting her way through giving birth to her first child. She surprised fellow twitterers today by updating her page via her mobile phone: "Dear Twitter, My water broke. . . . Now, timing contractions on an iPhone app." Sara, who has been tweeting throughout her pregnancy, has received hundreds of congratulations from well-wishers on the site. Others joked that the baby might tweet, "I'm here!" when it arrives. This may not be far from the truth in the future. Charlie Beckett, director of Polis, believes babies will soon be tweeting from the womb through audio blogging. "In the same you can email ultrasound, you will be able to 'audioboo' the throbbing of the womb." Telegraph

Kenya: Vice President Calls for Campaigns Against Abortion

Kenyan Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka has called on Kenyans to support the anti-abortion campaign, noting that termination of the unborn is against the protection of human sanctity. Musyoka regretted that many pregnancies have continued to be terminated before delivery despite the existence of alternatives to abortion such as adoption and foster parenthood. All Africa

Gel condom to "empower women"

A new gel could make a "vaginal condom" that would physically entrap semen and anything it contains, including sperm and viruses such as HIV. The gel is liquid as long as it is in contact with the acidity that is normal in a vagina, but will turn solid when it encounters semen, which is slightly alkaline. Any particles wider than 50 nanometres – including sperm, HIV and other viruses such as the herpes virus and the papilloma virus, which causes cervical cancer – are trapped, so the gel could double up as both a protectant and a contraceptive. New Scientist

Just good writing: Paul Greenberg

Ever notice how a gray, overcast day will bring out the green, green everywhere against the blue? On such days the outdoors glistens. It's as if all the world were saying: Don't be so hard on others. Or on yourself. Even a gray day, especially a gray day, can bring beauty. How can you be intolerant if you will only … look! JWR

Colorado Title Board Approves Proposal For Personhood Amendment

The Colorado Title Board on Wednesday voted in favor of a proposal that would amend the state constitution to extend legal protections to embryos. The language is fundamentally the same as that used in a ballot measure rejected by voters last year, however this proposal also would protect embryos created through asexual methods of reproduction such as cloning. Opponents say it would ban abortion as well as some types of birth control and in vitro fertilization. Medical News Today

There Must Be 50 Ways …

… to net more dollars — even in the worst economic times. Remember the story of the boy in Holland who noticed a hole in the dike? Fearing a leak could flood the entire town, he shoved his finger into the hole, potentially avoiding a major disaster. As fundraisers, our challenge is not unlike that boy’s. Every day, we look for leaks — places where we’re not maximizing our investment, little holes that, if left unplugged, can cause our donors to abandon us and our income to plummet. In today’s economy, it’s even more critical to not miss any opportunity. To that end, here are 50 possible leaks you can plug today. Fundraising Success

What’s Hot, What’s Not in Fundraising

The fundraising landscape is always changing and forcing nonprofits to work even harder to keep up with what’s hot in the market. Keeping track of new trends can be a full-time job in its own right, and knowing how to change development plans can be a daunting task. Achieving success in this ever-changing landscape can seem impossible, but it’s not. Fundraising Success

Michigan Abortions Increase in Bad Economy

The number of abortions in Michigan rose in 2008 after posting historic lows in 2007, and a statewide pro-life group is disappointed by the news. According to statistics from the Michigan Department of Community Health released this week, the number of abortions increased 5.2 percent in 2008. For all Michigan residents, there was a net increase of 1,158 abortions or 4.8 percent and a rise in abortions done on women residing out of state pushed the numbers higher. The report indicates 25,970 abortions were done in 2008 compared with 24,683 in 2007. LifeNews

Michigan Stats Disprove Notion of High Numbers of Insurance-Paid Abortions

Pro-abortion groups say most insurance plans pay for abortions, however, new statistics from Michigan show that a miniscule percentage of women had their abortions paid for by insurance companies. According to statistics from the Michigan health department this week in its survey of abortions done in 2008, just 1.8 percent of women relied in insurance coverage for their abortion. 98.1 percent of women paid the approximately $400-$500 (for a first-trimester abortion) out of their own pockets. LifeNews

Abortion is part of health care legislation

Because the Left can say abortion is not a part of the health care legislation--but FRC can prove it is. 1. The House bill specifically includes it. 2. Senate Democrats admit it. 3. Senate Democrats refused to ban it. 4. The mainstream media confirms it. 5. The Obama administration includes it in its definition of reproductive health care. 6. Every amendment to exclude it from health care legislation was defeated by the liberal sponsors. 20 Questions to Ask Your Legislator About Health Care Overhaul

The latest on health care reform & abortion

. . . from National Right to Life.

Poor nations' teens birth control use inconsistent

More and more teenage girls in developing countries are using various birth control methods, but they are less consistent with it and have higher rates of unplanned pregnancy than adults, an international study finds. Reuters

More Irish women seeking post-abortion check-ups

Records have revealed a 12 per cent drop in the number of women giving Irish addresses at abortion clinics in the UK and the Netherlands between 2005 and 2008 — but at the same time there was a 36 per cent rise in post-abortion medical check-ups funded by the Crisis Pregnancy Agency. Figures show that while fewer than 5,000 women travelled to the UK and Netherlands for abortions last year, almost 600 availed themselves of free health check-ups on their return. Hundreds of others attended counselling sessions at more than 50 centres nationwide as they dealt with the emotions of having a termination. Irish Times

End-of-Summer Classical Flute Concert for the Benefit of Be’ad Chaim

On August 29, 2009, in Jerusalem, the Be'ad Chaim pro-life ministry will host an evening of light classical music interspersed with poetry "by mothers for mothers," young and old and especially those mothers-to-be. A donation will be taken at the end of the concert for the work of Be’ad Chaim. Israel Pro-Life Association

Planned Parenthood Fined $700K for Medicaid Overbilling

The Planned Parenthood abortion business in Spokane, Washington has been hit with a $700,000 fine from the state health department. The result of an audit by state officials shows it was routinely overbilling Medicaid for abortions as well as contraception and family planning services. LifeNews

Obama silent about provisions for abortion

The Obama administration has initiated an effort to dispel what it describes as "wild rumors" about health-care reform, but, perhaps tellingly, it does not seek to deny that current congressional proposals will result in government funding of abortion. Baptist Press

Abused, maltreated kids have sex earlier

It's known that kids who have been sexually abused tend to start having sex earlier than kids who have not had that experience, possibly due to emotional distress. A new study out today shows that other forms of maltreatment -- such as neglect and physical and emotional abuse -- also raise the risk of early initiation of sex. Reuters

Your babies or your life

The choice Michelle faced was stark. Michelle Stepney, already mother to a four-year-old boy, was 19 weeks pregnant with twins when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. 'The gynaecologist told me I could have lifesaving surgery the following day,' recalls Michelle. 'This would involve a radical hysterectomy - removing my womb and cervix - and would virtually guarantee my long-term survival without the need for any follow-up chemotherapy or radiotherapy, but it would mean ending the life of my unborn babies.' A few days later, with the decision still not made, Michelle contacted her cancer nurse. 'I told her I couldn't say goodbye to the twins and begged her to find another way to try and get the three of us through this nightmare alive.' Daily Mail

Warren Hern: The Last Abortion Doctor

Nothing pains him more than the disdain of other doctors. Sometimes the young ones ask to come in for an afternoon so they can learn to make a little money while their careers get started — they think it's as simple as changing a tire. "There's no sense that this is an important operation that has to be done well, that a person's life depends on it." But let's face it, abortion is the lowest-status activity in medicine. That's why they always call their clinics Family Planning Centers or Women's Wellness Facilities or some **** like that. Not his place. It's had the same name since 1975. "Because I felt that performing abortions was the most important thing I could do in medicine." Esquire

See also Man is a Malignant Eco-Tumor

Abstinence brochures available from CBH

CBH Ministries (Children's Bible Hour) offer abstinence brochures for young teens that are biblically based, as well as other helpful gospel tracts.

Urgent Prayer Request

Lindel Brothers, formerly the executive director of the Women's Centers of NW Indiana, had a colonoscopy Friday morning and they found a tumor. It is cancer. They are trying to schedule surgery tomorrow. Surgery is risky due to other health issues. Your prayers and love are much appreciated.

Minnesota Planned Parenthood Gets Infertility Grant

The Minnesota Department of Health has announced a new set of grants to four agencies to use to educate and prevent infertility. State officials awarded federal grant money to Planned Parenthood even though the abortions it does cause higher rates of infertility among women. LifeNews

Editor: Did you ever notice how many celebrities are having twins? I just noticed a headline about Roger Federer's newborns, and it made me wonder why there seems to be such a high percentage of twin pregnancies among the famous. I presume it's due to fertility assistance. That begs the question, then, why so many famous and infertile?

White House: Snitch on People Who Oppose Health Care Reform

The White House is not happy with the millions of Americans who oppose the pro-abortion government-run health care plan Congress is considering. In a new post on the White House web site, Obama administration officials ask people to tattle on groups and people who oppose the health care bill. LifeNews, Facts are Stubborn Things (White House blog)

IRS Backs Down, Approves NonProfit Tax Status for Iowa Pro-Life Group

The Internal revenue Service has backed down after a legal threat from pro-life advocates following it targeting a pro-life Iowa group that acts in part as a watchdog over the Planned Parenthood abortion business. The IRS had refused to grant nonprofit tax status to the Coalition for Life of Iowa unless it agreed to limit its "picketing" and "protesting" of Planned Parenthood. LifeNews

D.C. to Offer STD Tests In Every High School

D.C. school officials are planning to offer tests for sexually transmitted diseases to all high school students in the coming school year, expanding a pilot program that uncovered a significant number of infected children. The program, which has been discussed by the D.C. school board, requires students to attend a lecture about STDs, but they can opt out of providing a urine sample for the test. All 50 states and the District allow minors older than 12 to be screened for STDs without parental consent. Washington Post

Women logging on for online abortions

There are growing fears women in England, Wales and Scotland are using the internet to buy the abortion pill. They can only be issued by licensed staff here and taken in front of a nurse. In Ireland they're banned completely. But a Real Radio investigation has found you can order them online for as little as £35. The pills are delivered direct to your door, but medical staff are worried women might not know what they're ordering and it could be trivialising the whole procedure. Real Radio

Get to Know: Caleb Counseling

Caleb Counseling offers Biblical Soulutions for all of life. If you are a Christian and need help with a dominating temptation/sin, find yourself in an overwhelming life situation, or just need preemptive wisdom—we are here for you! We are here to help you find God’s answers to life’s questions which only come from His Word. The Bible declares, All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work (II Timothy 3:16-17). Caleb Counseling's vision is to be a premiere Biblical nouthetic counseling and training center for individuals, local churches, and pastors in the Charlotte region to the glory of God. Please call or
email today to set up an initial consultation and discover the Strategic Transformation Plan God has for you.

The Self-Confrontation Manual

The 105 biblical principles contained in the Self-Confrontation manual, based solely on the promises and authority of God in the Old and New Testaments, provide guidance for living a victorious life. Each lesson is designed, first, to explain the meaning of specific biblical principles, and then to incorporate them into your life through practical homework assignments. The Self-Confrontation manual includes biblical teaching on areas such as preoccupation with self, anger, bitterness, relationships, depression, fear, worry, and more. This manual is designed to be a continuing reference for facing, dealing with, and enduring all problems of life. Available in English, Albanian, Bengali, Traditional and Simplified Chinese, French, Hindi, Korean, Portuguese, Romanian, Spanish, Tamil, and Telegu. Biblical Counseling Foundation

Abortion Advocates Vandalize Office of European Pro-Life Conference

The Amsterdam offices of EuroCongress were vandalized and damaged last Thursday. EuroCongress is the professional conference organizer for World Congress of Families V, which will be held at the RAI Centre in Amsterdam starting on August 10. Vandals defaced and damaged the outside of the EuroCongress building by smearing paint and writing various obscenities and anti-Christian slogans. LifeNews

Obama Staffer Says Abortion Compromise Coming

President Barack Obama's top staffer for faith-based issues says the abortion compromise proposal his office is crafting is coming soon. But one pro-life advocate who was involved in the discussions is very skeptical that the White House will craft a real proposal that legitimately reduces abortions. LifeNews, Brody File

Leadership Summit notebook available for download

Download the entire 2009 Leadership Summit notebook, with access to copious notes for John Lewis' plenary session on Intimacy with the Father, Jeanneane Maxon's Center Readiness, Sara Keeler's Abstinence Training, Roxanna Hartline's Grant Writing, and Colleen Tronson's Adoption Option. You can also find the order form for audio CDs on page 17. View photos from the Summit, too.